I should hope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I should hope" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a desire or expectation that something will happen or is true. Example: "I should hope that we can resolve this issue quickly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"I should hope so.

The New Yorker

I should hope it's pleasing".

The New York Times

"Fuck, I should hope so.

The New Yorker

I should hope not.

The Guardian - Sport

"I should hope not," he said.

The New Yorker

"At least I should hope not".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

I say we should hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

The New York Times

"When you and I die, we should hope to come back as Lexus dealers".

Forbes

We need — or perhaps I should say, we should hope for — better management and more alert boards of directors.

The New York Times

I don't think we should hope anymore.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Mets should hope so.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I should hope" to express mild surprise or disapproval when something contrary to expectation occurs. For instance, "You did remember to lock the door, I should hope?"

Common error

While "I should hope" is acceptable in neutral contexts, avoid excessive use in formal writing, as it can sound overly conversational. Opt for more direct expressions of expectation or desire, such as "It is expected" or "It is desirable."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I should hope" functions as an expression of expectation or mild desire. It's used to convey that something is considered obvious, desirable, or that the speaker would be surprised if it were not the case. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts to emphasize a point or express mild disbelief.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I should hope" is a versatile phrase used to express expectation or mild desire, often with a hint of surprise or disapproval if the expectation is not met. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media. While acceptable in various contexts, it's best to avoid overuse in formal writing. For more formal settings, alternatives like "I would expect" or "It is to be hoped" may be more appropriate. The phrase functions to underscore the obviousness or desirability of a particular outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I certainly hope so

Adds emphasis to the hope being expressed.

I truly hope so

Conveys sincerity and earnestness in the hope.

I would expect

Implies a strong expectation with a slightly more formal tone.

I anticipate that

Suggests a confident expectation of a future event or outcome.

I would think so

Expresses a belief that something is true or likely, but with less emphasis.

It is to be expected

Focuses on the expectation rather than the desire.

One would hope

A more detached and generalized expression of hope or expectation.

I imagine so

Indicates an assumption or belief based on limited evidence.

It is to be hoped

A formal and somewhat passive way of expressing a desire.

Let us hope

Suggests a collective desire or expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "I should hope" in a sentence?

Use "I should hope" to express that something is desirable, expected, or obvious. For example, "You remembered to bring a gift, "I should hope"!" or "They plan to address the issue promptly, "I should hope"."

What phrases can I use instead of "I should hope"?

Alternatives to "I should hope" include "I would expect", "I certainly hope so", or "It is to be hoped". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "I should hope" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "I should hope" is generally more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using more direct and less colloquial alternatives like "It is expected" or "It is desirable".

What does "I should hope" imply in a conversation?

In conversation, "I should hope" often implies a sense of mild surprise, expectation, or even gentle reproach. It suggests that the speaker believes something is so obvious or desirable that it scarcely needs stating. It is related to "I would think so".